Transplanting stem cell-derived retinal cells to treat dry age-related macular degeneration
Phase1/2a Clinical Trial of RPESC-derived RPE Transplantation as Therapy for Non-exudative Age-related Macular Degeneration
This study is exploring a new way to help people with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by using special cells from adult stem cells to replace damaged cells in the eye, with the goal of safely improving vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Regenerative Research Foundation NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10912462 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells derived from adult stem cells to treat non-exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness. The approach involves transplanting these specially differentiated cells into the eye to restore vision by replacing damaged retinal cells. The study aims to determine the safety and effectiveness of these transplants in improving vision for patients suffering from dry AMD. By using less differentiated progenitor cells, the research seeks to minimize the risk of tumor formation while maximizing the potential for vision recovery.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with non-exudative age-related macular degeneration who are experiencing vision loss.
Not a fit: Patients with exudative (wet) age-related macular degeneration or those with other forms of retinal disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients with dry age-related macular degeneration, potentially restoring vision and improving quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous early clinical trials have shown promise for similar approaches using stem cell-derived retinal cells, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Albany, UNITED STATES
- Regenerative Research Foundation — Albany, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stern, Jeffrey H — Regenerative Research Foundation
- Study coordinator: Stern, Jeffrey H
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.